Near-Field Antenna Measurement Upgrades for Characterizing Microwave and Millimetre-Wave Electromagnetic Metasurfaces

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Advances in the field of electromagnetic metasurfaces (EMMSs) have enabled designers to yield unprecedented control over electromagnetic waves through the sophisticated matter/wave interaction facilitated by them. Encompassing a wide range of topologies, EMMSs have made it possible to design low-profile beam-forming antennas with extremely high efficiency, wide-angle refracting/reflecting surfaces, electromagnetic cloaks, and many more structures that are of major interest for wireless communications and sensing in the microwave and millimetre-wave (mm-wave) range, particularly in emerging 5G/6G wireless applications. These systems exploit a larger portion of the mm-wave frequency bands where the electromagnetic control afforded by EMMSs can be a major asset. The applicants have worked extensively on developing EMMS technology and applications through their respective research programs and collaboration at the University of Toronto. As our activities are experimentally-based, we rely extensively on measurements of the radiated characteristics of EMMSs to validate theoretical and technological concepts. To do this, we employ two near-field antenna measurement systems at the University of Toronto, which cover non-overlapping frequency ranges. The proposal seeks funding to maintain and improve this is existing infrastructure. Part of the funds requested will be used to refurbish the older microwave system, which is in need of maintenance and repair, while part allocated to supplementing the capabilities of the newer mm-wave system so that we can extend the achievable frequency range covered by this instrument. Jointly, the improvements funded by this proposal will allow us to leverage major investments made in each respective system. The measurement infrastructure used in this proposal is pivotal not only in the training of highly qualified personnel, who gain a spectrum of useful skills and experience using this equipment, but also our groups' collaborations with industry. In the latter, experimental validation of concepts is key to demonstrating the practical applications of technology and informing directions towards further commercial development. Collectively, the proposed equipment improvements will enable deep research impact in a breadth of ongoing activities in the EMMS field at the University of Toronto.